When short-term debt becomes a habit, your future is compromised. Spend some time understanding which behaviours are trapping you in a debt spiral.
Debt: My rights
Paying back debt is always painful, but knowing your rights when dealing with creditors and debt collectors might provide an opportunity to work out a manageable payment plan. You should also be aware of the pro’s and cons of debt counselling.
Debt: I’ve been handed over
What does it mean to be “handed over”? Is this debt counselling? And does this mean I’m “blacklisted”?
Debt: Avoidance fees
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and afraid when your debt has been handed over. However, avoiding a debt collector will add to the fees. By engaging with the collection agency you can negotiate payment plans, and you could even get a discount on your debt.
Debt: Why debt costs money
Sometimes debt is our only hope in a difficult situation, but a small loan can very quickly turn into an unmanageable debt. This is how it happens …
Debt: Your DIY repayment plan
Do you want to pay off all your debts in a year? There’s more room to renegotiate your debt repayments than you might think. Here’s how you put together a realistic, clearly-formulated debt repayment that accommodates your personal situation.
Nominal vs effective interest rate, know the difference
Is your bank advertising a nominal interest rate or the effective interest rate on a savings account? Know the difference because this marketing trick has real implications when you’re making a decision on where to save your money.
The beginner’s guide to investing
We designed this series of articles for those who want to take control of their finances, but are unsure where to begin. If that sounds like you, our quick reference guide can be treated as a step-by-step guide to getting on your way.
Revisiting your investment strategy
Learning and planning is exhilarating. Everything is new and you’re excited to get started. Once you start putting your financial plan into action however, you will become part of the hurry up and wait club. Here are 3 common responses that you need to resist.
Investing tax-free
These accounts all start with “tax-free” because they are literally free of tax. You pay no dividends tax, no income tax and no capital gains on your investments. If you manage to stay invested for a 25-year period, the tax saving amounts to more than R2 million. Yes, million.